FUNAAB’s COBFAS Records Bumper Tomato Harvest, Expands Food Security Initiative With 8-Hectare Maize Farm

The Centre for Community-Based Farming Scheme (COBFAS) of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has recorded a major boost in its food security efforts with a bumper tomato harvest while expanding its agricultural operations through the cultivation of maize on approximately eight hectares of land.

The tomato production project, which commenced on April 4, 2026, delivered an impressive harvest within three months, highlighting the impact of modern farming techniques and strategic partnerships in improving agricultural productivity.

Speaking during a media tour of the farm, the Director of COBFAS, Prof. Dare Akerele, attributed the success of the project to the support of the university management, contributions from development partners, and the dedication of the scheme’s agricultural personnel.

According to him, the commitment of the agricultural officers to routine agronomic practices played a critical role in achieving the bumper harvest. He also acknowledged Soilless Farm for sponsoring the construction of the greenhouse facility, describing the partnership as instrumental to the success of the project.

Building on the success of the tomato enterprise, Prof. Akerele disclosed that COBFAS has intensified its food security drive through the cultivation of maize on about eight hectares of land.

He revealed that the maize project received significant support from the university management, alongside a donation of six 200-kilogramme bags of Oba Super-6 hybrid maize seeds from Premier Seed. He explained that the variety is a high-yielding hybrid fortified with Pro-Vitamin A and possesses drought-tolerant characteristics capable of improving both productivity and nutritional value.

Prof. Akerele expressed optimism that the university would record a bountiful maize harvest within the next three months, provided favourable weather conditions persist. He also commended the agricultural officers and tractor operators for their dedication to the successful establishment of the maize farm.

The director further appreciated the Directorate of Public Relations for consistently publicising COBFAS activities and keeping stakeholders informed about the scheme’s progress and achievements.

Looking ahead, he disclosed plans to strengthen dry-season farming operations to ensure a steady supply of fresh farm produce to members of the university community and residents of neighbouring communities.

Describing the achievements recorded so far as “just a tip of the iceberg,” Prof. Akerele expressed confidence that increased support and investment would enable COBFAS to achieve even greater levels of agricultural productivity and impact in the coming years.

Meanwhile, the university announced that freshly harvested tomatoes will be available for sale every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for the next one month at a price of ₦1,500 per kilogramme. Sales will take place between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon at the bus stop opposite the Directorate of Public Relations.

Interested buyers can make bookings by contacting Mr. Adeoye on 08062694618.